Chad is threatening to expel US forces from their bases in the country
The government of Chad threatens to expel US forces from its territory after sending a letter to Washington declaring its intention to “terminate a vital security agreement,” according to multiple US sources.
This step may reduce US influence in Africa and strengthen Russia’s influence.
The letter, which was addressed to the US Defense Attaché last week, threatens to cancel the so called “a status of forces agreement” (SOFA) which is an agreement between a host country and a foreign nation stationing military forces in that country.
These agreements are often included, along with other types of military agreements, as part of a comprehensive security arrangement.
Although the letter didn’t explicitly request the departure of the US army, US officials indicated the necessity of leaving the US bases in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad.
Sources confirm that the letter specifically referred to the US Special Operations Task Force at the base, which is a vital base for US special operations in the region.
Although the task force is only part of the US forces at the base, all US military personnel in Chad are present in N’Djamena.
US officials point out that the message wasn’t sent through official diplomatic channels, which is the usual method.
They warn that the letter may be part of a negotiating tactic used by the Chadian government to achieve a new agreement that serves its interests.
It’s not clear though exactly how many troops the United states stationed in Chad, but a US official confirmed that there are about 100 soldiers in the country.
This move comes just one month after the military government in Niger ended its agreement with the US army, raising questions about the countries of the region’s tendency to reevaluate relations with the United States.
Chad follows Niger’s example in exploiting the opportunity to achieve further concessions from the United States, which surprised US officials.
The United States interests in Africa face major challenges, especially with the growing Russian influence in the region, which has raised concerns among US officials who warn of its impact on the stability of the continent.
The head of the US Africa Command indicates that Russia is seeking to strengthen its influence in Central Africa and the Sahel region at an accelerating pace, which puts the countries of the region in a dilemma that must balance their need for development assistance with the risks of losing national sovereignty.
The head of the US-Africa Command visited Chad last January, where he met with Chadian military leaders to discuss issues of common concern.
